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Ukrainians act first, Italians take time - Surprising cultural differences that stand out

Ukrainians act first, Italians take time - Surprising cultural differences that stand out How Ukrainians differ from Italians (photo: Getty Images)

From the pace of decision-making to superstitions and coffee rituals, Ukrainians and Italians are separated by many small details that may seem strange at first glance but reveal a deep cultural logic over time. Oleh Andrushkiv, a guide in Rome, told RBC-Ukraine in an interview how the mentalities of the two nations differ, which Ukrainian habits surprise Italians, and what shocks tourists the most during their first trip to Italy.

How Ukrainians differ from Italians

According to Andrushkiv, Ukrainians act quickly and directly: if there’s an idea, it must be implemented. In Italy, decisions are made much more slowly, with long discussions and searching for compromises.

"At residents' meetings, discussions about whether to replace a door handle can last for years. Meanwhile, the handle remains old, but everyone keeps talking about it," the guide gives as an example.

He believes this has historical roots: Italy, as a country of regions and democratic self-government, was formed after World War II, and the tradition of considering everyone's opinion has remained to this day.

What surprises Italians most about Ukrainians

One Ukrainian habit that surprises Italians is superstition.

"Not passing anything over the threshold, not leaving empty bottles on the table, not whistling indoors… Everyone knows these, from the young to the old," says Andrushkiv.

Italy has superstitions too, but they are mostly typical of the older generation. Young people react with surprise and then ask curiously about such "don'ts."

What surprises Ukrainians most about Italy

According to the guide, Ukrainian tourists are often shocked by the loudness of Italians: emotional conversations with lively gestures can be easily mistaken for arguments. But in fact, it's normal communication.

The coffee culture is no less surprising.

"In Italy, coffee is drunk in small portions of espresso, standing at the bar counter, and ordering a cappuccino after lunch immediately marks you as a tourist," Oleh explains.

Another difference is the attitude toward work and rest. When the workday ends, Italians completely disconnect from work, dedicating weekends to family, friends, and dolce far niente, the "sweetness of doing nothing."

"You leave your home in the morning, and on the corner there's a small café, the smell of fresh pastries, a smiling barista who remembers your coffee… And at that moment, you realize you are in another world," Andrushkiv concluded.

Earlier, we revealed why Americans go to Ukraine and do not want to return to the USA.